Louisiana Winter Tip: 4 Things You Should Do Instead of Pouring Boiling Water On Your Windshield

As the frosty Louisiana winter months approach, many drivers face the inconvenience of dealing with ice-covered windshields on their vehicles. In an attempt to quickly clear the ice and gain visibility, some resort to pouring hot water over the frozen surface. However, experts strongly caution against this seemingly quick fix, highlighting the potential risks and damages it can cause to the vehicle.

Get our free mobile app

Is it safe to pour hot water on your car's windshield?

While there are videos online of people testing this out and not breaking their windows we don't recommend it because it can be risky.

The practice of pouring hot water on a frozen windshield might seem like a straightforward solution to expedite the ice removal process. Still, it can lead to severe consequences, particularly for the windshield and the vehicle itself. The sudden temperature change, from icy cold to hot, can induce thermal stress on the glass, resulting in cracks or even shattering.

Automotive experts emphasize that the glass on a vehicle's windshield is manufactured to withstand a range of temperatures, but extreme temperature differentials can compromise its structural integrity. When hot water is poured on a frozen windshield, the rapid expansion and contraction of the glass can create micro-fractures or weaken the entire structure, ultimately leading to irreparable damage.

Moreover, the hot water applied to a freezing-cold surface could cause a sudden temperature shock, leading to the glass's immediate contraction. This contraction could result in cracking or, in extreme cases, the windshield shattering, posing significant safety risks to the driver and passengers.

Instead of resorting to pouring hot water, experts recommend using alternative methods to defrost a frozen windshield safely:

1. Use a De-Icing Solution: Utilize commercially available de-icing sprays or solutions specifically designed for car windshields. These products are formulated to melt ice effectively without causing damage to the glass.
2. Scrape Away Ice: Use a windshield ice scraper or a soft-bristled brush to gently remove the ice from the surface. Be cautious not to apply excessive force, which could scratch or damage the glass.
3. Preventive Measures: Consider preventive measures such as covering the windshield with a tarp, cardboard, or specialized windshield cover overnight to minimize ice accumulation. You can purchase a windshield blanket on Amazon too.
4. Start the Car Early: Running the vehicle's heater can gradually melt the ice on the windshield while warming up the interior of the car.

Ultimately, the risks associated with pouring hot water on a frozen car windshield far outweigh the perceived benefits of quick ice removal. The potential for costly repairs and safety hazards makes it imperative for drivers to exercise caution and use safer alternatives when dealing with icy windshields during winter.

By adopting proper ice removal techniques and preventive measures, drivers can ensure not only the safety of their vehicles but also their own safety and that of others on the road during the frosty winter season.